U.S. study finds speeding saves only seconds, offers no real benefit

A University of Minnesota analysis of 120 million American trips found that drivers exceed speed limits in 43.2 % of rides, with an average overrun of 11 mph (18 km/h) and speeding for about 12 % of the time. When the researchers recalculated travel times assuming no speeding, the average daily 46‑km trip saved only 54 seconds, while higher fuel use, emissions and accident risk increase costs and environmental impact.

Separate legal commentary notes that while Dutch traffic law does not prescribe a specific acceleration rate at green lights, rapid acceleration can still trigger fines under Article 5 of the Road Traffic Act for unsafe behaviour, or under Article 57 for excessive noise. Penalties are discretionary, with possible fines of up to €320 and, in severe cases, licence suspension or community service.